I would like to share a visualization of the junior pathway I’m currently working on to help you better understand what the journey might look like. I know it can be overwhelming at times, especially when you’re hearing different – and sometimes even contradictory – advice on how to start or what to do next.
So, where do you begin?
First of all, your child should join a local club. This is where they can start learning the basics, gaining confidence, and, ideally, developing an interest in the competitive side of the game.
If you’re lucky, the coach or club might organise some junior tournaments locally. These are great opportunities for your child to challenge themselves in a familiar environment, close to home. This step is crucial.
It allows them to experience competition without the added pressure of travel – especially helpful for those early losses, which are inevitable for 99% of players.
If your child continues to enjoy the challenge and wants more, you have a couple of pathways to consider
Local Junior Leagues: These local junior events are a great way to meet competitive players, with a mix of abilities and levels all under one roof. It usually takes a few rounds across the season to find the winning team, and children often love the lively, buzzing atmosphere.
County Trials: You can enter them into trials for your local County team. This gives them a chance to see a higher standard of play and, if selected, to represent the County at age-group level.
Badminton England (BE) Tournaments: Alternatively (or additionally), you can register your child with Badminton England and start entering them into nearby restricted tournaments. These are competitive events where players compete for ranking points, better gradings, and medals.
Being selected for a County team is a significant step. If chosen, your child will compete in the Shires League – a junior league where matches can vary in level from week to week. One weekend they might face players of a similar standard, the next they could be up against some of the best in the country.
Importantly, matches played in the Shires League also count toward national ranking points, just like they would in a BE-sanctioned tournament (for example, an Under-13 Bronze event).
Understanding Badminton England Rankings, Gradings, and Points
Once your child starts playing in Badminton England (BE) tournaments, you’ll start to hear terms like rankings, gradings, and points. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they mean and how the system works:
Ranking Points
What are they?
Points awarded based on your child’s performance in official BE tournaments.
How are they earned?
The further your child progresses in a tournament, the more ranking points they earn. Winning a match, especially in later rounds, earns more points than early wins.
How are they used?
BE uses a player’s top 6 results over the last 12 months to calculate their total ranking. This helps reflect consistent performance and current form.
Grading of Tournaments
BE tournaments are divided into levels to match different standards. These are often referred to as:
Bronze – Entry-level national tournaments
Silver – Mid-level
Gold – High-level, for the stronger players nationally
Platinum – The highest level, very competitive
At younger age groups (e.g. U11, U13), most children start at Bronze events. As their standard improves and their ranking rises, they may qualify for higher-graded tournaments like Silver or Gold.
Player Grading
Players also receive a grade (like D, C, B, A) in each discipline: singles, doubles, and mixed. These grades determine which tournaments they can enter.
Everyone starts ungraded.
Based on results, players move up in grade — e.g., winning matches in Bronze events may move a player from D to C grade.
Some tournaments are restricted by grade (e.g., only C grade and below can enter), while others are open to all.
Note on Gradings:
Each player receives a separate grading for each discipline: singles, level doubles, and mixed doubles. So, a player might be a C grade in singles, but a D grade in doubles or mixed. Their grade in each category is determined by their results in that specific discipline. This is important because entry into some tournaments is based on the player’s individual grade per discipline, not their overall ability.
Important Notes
Rankings are age group specific (U11, U13, U15, U17, U19), so players may be ranked differently in each.
Your child’s ranking and grading are updated regularly based on tournament results.
Entry into some tournaments (especially Silver and Gold) depends on their ranking — only a limited number of top-ranked players get in.
Badminton England Age Groups – Explained Clearly
Badminton England (BE) splits junior players into age categories so that children compete against others of a similar age. These are:
U11 – Under 11
U13 – Under 13
U15 – Under 15
U17 – Under 17
U19 – Under 19
Each category is based on the child’s age as of the following 1st of January, NOT their age at the time of the tournament.
So what does that mean in practice?
Let’s say your child is born on 15 May 2013.
On 1 January 2025, they are 11 years old.
Therefore, for the 2025/2026 season, they will compete in the U13 category (Under 13).
Even if they don’t turn 13 until May 2026, they’ll still be eligible for U13 throughout the season.
Badminton England Season & Age Groups
- The BE season runs 1 July → 30 June.
- Age groups are determined by the player’s age on 1 January before the season starts.
Example:
| Date of Birth | Age on 1 Jan 2025 | Age Group (2025/26 Season) |
|---|---|---|
| 15 May 2013 | 11 | U13 |
| 3 Nov 2010 | 14 | U15 |
| 28 Feb 2007 | 17 | U19 |
Why this causes confusion:
It doesn’t follow school years – A child might be playing in a different age group than their classmates.
Tournaments can include older players – If your child is “young for their age group,” they might be playing against others nearly a year older.
“Under” can be misleading – A child in U13 could be 12 the whole year and still be in U13.
Many parents let their child play much higher than their age – To help them earn more ranking points, improve their grading, or face greater challenges, players who are already confidently winning Silver or Gold tournaments in their own age group, their parents may consider them competing in higher age groups.
For example, a girl in the U13 category might perform very well in a U17 Bronze tournament and even win a medal and a significant number of ranking points.
These points could help her qualify for the English Nationals in her own age group. In some cases, players who are ahead of their age group may even qualify for the Nationals in multiple age groups and disciplines.
What to watch for:
Check your child’s age on 1 January of the current calendar year.
That locks in their age group for the next season (July to June).
They must stay in that age group for the whole season — they can’t “drop down” even if their birthday passes. They can play up an age group if desired (e.g. an 11-year-old playing in U15), but not down.
You could have the question, how could my child be selected into any of the Junior Squad of England? Based on their Ranking/Grading/Performance/or an England Coach’s observation on a Gold Tournament. If they are showing potential, they will be invited to one of EJPP collaboration day.
What is the England Junior Performance Programme (EJPP)?
The EJPP is the pathway BE uses to identify, support, and select junior players (roughly U13 → U19) for higher‑level tournaments and championship events. It includes:
- Domestic Gold tournaments
- National Championships
- EJPP Camps
- International or international‑development tournaments
Criteria / Requirements for Selection
To get into the English Junior Squad via EJPP, players are generally expected to meet a number of criteria. These fall into a few categories:
- Must be a current member of Badminton England.
- Often also must hold a UK passport or meet residency requirements (e.g. lived in the country for some years) for being eligible for international events.
- Not under suspension, disqualification, etc.
- Performance & Tournament Results
- Must have played in domestic “Gold” tournaments in the relevant age group during a defined look‑back period.
- Good results at National Championships or similar level tournaments (medals, high placings) help greatly.
- For younger ages, showing strong and consistent performance in domestic circuit, perhaps also older opposition where relevant.
- Camp Participation / Observation
- Players may need to attend EJPP Camps, Collaboration Days or Development Camps. Coaching observations during camps count. BE monitor behaviour, attitude and performances at camps.
- Consistent engagement (attendance, training, meeting commitments) over time.
- Trajectory / Potential
- Not just what has been done but what is projected: can the player continue developing and compete at the required level. The selection panel looks at trajectory / player profile. badmintonengland.co.uk
- The ability to challenge younger or older players, or to perform vs stronger opponents, helps.
- Other Factors
- Attitude, behaviour, and performance culture (how the child trains, how coachable, sportsmanship etc.) are considered.
- Commitment: availability for training, tournaments, preparation plans. Financial contribution sometimes required for international tournament attendance.
Specific Event Selection Policies
For each major event / tournament (e.g. European Junior Championships, U19 World Junior Championships, Home Countries Quadrangular etc.), BE publishes a Selection Policy laying out more detailed rules.
These include:
Exactly which tournaments count (e.g. “Gold tournaments over past 12 months”)
How many players per discipline (singles, doubles, mixed) may be selected.
Age eligibility (must be born on or after certain years) for each event.
That players must commit to preparation plans.
Sometimes that they must attend certain domestic tournaments or events.
Putting it all together — What a player / parent should do
To maximise chances of selection, these are practical steps:
Ensure Badminton England membership is valid and all eligibility (passport / residency) is clear.
Enter “Gold level” tournaments and national‐level tournaments wherever possible. Gather good results.
Attend EJPP Camps or similar observational camps when invited. Engage in training, show good attitude.
Train consistently — not just match play, but technical, physical and mental aspects; take feedback.
Be visible to selectors: good performances, consistent participation, attend tournaments and camps.
Know the policies for the specific event if aiming for a particular international or championship event (check age, deadlines etc). Support and planning: parents / coaches should help with schedules, travel, funding if needed.
As a parent, you might be wondering: What does my child need to do differently now? Is there a list of things they should focus on or be aware of? There is, and it is called the Player Characteristics Model. Badminton England (BE) is not just looking for players who can win matches.
They’re looking for well-rounded athletes with the right character, commitment, and potential to develop into elite competitors, both nationally and internationally.
Core Player Characteristics BE Values
- Coachability
Open to feedback.
Willing to learn and apply corrections.
Works positively with different coaches.
Shows resilience when challenged.
Why it matters: A player who listens and adapts can grow faster than a talented player who ignores coaching. - Work Ethic & Consistency
Trains regularly and with intent.
Demonstrates effort in every session, not just at tournaments.
Takes ownership of improvement outside formal training (e.g. physical conditioning, mindset work).
Why it matters: BE invests in players long-term — they want to see commitment and self-discipline. - Long-Term Development Potential
May not be the best now, but shows the tools (movement, anticipation, tactical understanding) to improve rapidly.
Physically and mentally developing in a way that suggests potential for international-level performance.
Why it matters: BE is building players for future international success — not just short-term wins. - Game Intelligence / Tactical Awareness
Makes smart choices under pressure.
Shows ability to adapt game plans during a match.
Understands their own strengths and weaknesses.
Why it matters: Winning at higher levels isn’t just about power — it’s about reading the game and reacting intelligently. - Competitive Mindset & Resilience
Loves competition — thrives in match settings.
Can handle losses, recover quickly, and learn from them.
Doesn’t give up in tough situations.
Why it matters: BE wants mentally strong players who won’t collapse under pressure. - Positive Attitude & Team Ethos
Shows good sportsmanship — respectful to opponents, umpires, and coaches.
Supports teammates during camps and team events (e.g. Shires League or internationals).
Represents themselves, their county, and BE with maturity.
Why it matters: Especially in team events, character and behaviour are as important as skill. - Communication Skills & Maturity
Can articulate their thoughts during reviews or match debriefs.
Reflects honestly on their own performance.
Manages feedback without taking it personally.
Why it matters: Self-awareness is a key trait of elite athletes. BE wants players who think as well as do. - Performing Under Observation
Able to deliver strong performances in matches or assessments when coaches are watching.
Doesn’t hide or freeze under pressure.
Shows their “best self” consistently.
Why it matters: Selectors have limited time to observe — players need to shine when it counts.
What Parents and Coaches Should Encourage
Independence – Let your child make mistakes and learn.
Accountability – Help them take responsibility for preparation, equipment, recovery, etc.
Process over results – Focus on how they’re playing, not just the outcome.
Being part of a National Squad and representing your country is a significant responsibility, no matter your age — but it’s also a big moment for not just young athletes, but their parents.
It’s not just about talent or winning — it’s about how you carry yourself on and off the court. From a sport psychology perspective, young athletes are expected to present maturity, emotional control, commitment to training, and the ability to work within a team environment.
According to the principles of Working With Parents in Sport (WWPIS), parents play a crucial role in shaping the environment around the child, especially during high-pressure moments like national selection. It’s not just about supporting performance — it’s about modelling emotional control, helping young athletes manage expectations, and keeping the bigger picture in mind.
Representing a nation means the spotlight grows brighter, and the stakes feel higher. That’s when children need calm, balanced guidance the most — not added pressure.
Parents who focus on effort, learning, and resilience — rather than just outcomes — help their child develop the mindset needed to thrive, both on and off the court. National-level sport is a shared journey, and the way parents walk it with their children can make all the difference.
From Competitive to Supportive: A Parent’s Role in Long-Term Athlete Development
Being emotionally invested in your child’s journey is natural. But transforming from a competitive parent (focused on outcomes and comparison) to a supportive one (focused on growth and experience) can make a huge difference in your child’s sporting life — and overall well-being.
- Shift Your Focus: From Winning to Learning
Competitive parents often focus on rankings, medals, or beating certain opponents. Supportive parents, instead, ask:
What did you learn from this match?
What went well, and what could you work on next time?
This approach builds resilience and encourages a love for the sport — not just the rewards. Winning is temporary. Learning lasts.
✅ Supportive mindset: “You played with great focus today — how did that feel?”
❌ Competitive mindset: “Why didn’t you beat that player? You’ve done it before.”
- 🧘 Manage Your Emotions — So They Can Manage Theirs
Children mirror their parents. If you get tense during matches, question line calls, or react visibly to results, your child will feel that pressure. Athletes — especially younger ones — need emotional stability around them to learn how to regulate their own.
Supportive parents stay calm, encourage perspective, and let coaches take the lead during events.
✅ Supportive mindset: “It’s just one match — let’s enjoy the journey.”
❌ Competitive mindset: “We came all this way — you can’t lose to them!”
- Focus on the Bigger Picture
Sport is just one part of your child’s development. Help them see themselves as more than an athlete. Encourage good habits — like time management, sleep, recovery, handling setbacks, and showing respect — that will benefit them in life, not just in competition.
Supportive parents value the journey and understand that progress isn’t linear. They create a safe space where their child is more than their last result.
✅ Supportive mindset: “I’m proud of how you handled yourself, regardless of the score.”
❌ Competitive mindset: “That loss will affect your seeding — we need to fix this.”
- Supportive & Relaxing Questions to Ask on the Way Home:
“What was your favourite moment today?”
→ Shifts focus to positive experiences, not just outcomes.
“Did you enjoy anything about the matches?”
→ Encourages reflection on the experience, not just performance.
“What made you smile or laugh today?”
→ Helps bring emotional balance after a tough day.
“Is there anything you’d like to do differently next time?”
→ Opens the door for self-driven growth without pressure.
“Are you hungry? Want to choose the music or a snack stop?”
→ Resets the tone and reminds them they’re still just a kid.
- What to Avoid:
Don’t start with match analysis or criticism.
Avoid comparing your child to others.
Let silence be okay — some kids just need time to decompress.
Final Reminder:
The best gift you can give your child isn’t more coaching, more tournaments, or more advice — it’s your unconditional support. When your child knows that your pride and love don’t depend on their results, they’re free to grow, take risks, and enjoy the sport — and that’s what truly creates success in the long run. The best message you can send — through words or silence — is:
“I love watching you play, and I’m proud of you no matter what.”